HISTORY AND MISSION Founded in 1983 NAMI PA ( formerly known as the Alliance for the Mentally Ill of Pennsylvania ) is the largest statewide non-profit organization dedicated to helping mental health consumers and their families rebuild their lives and conquer the challenges posed by severe and persistent mental illness. This mission is accomplished through programs designed to offer support and education to our membership and to advocate for better mental health services on their behalf. We also strive to educate the public about the true nature of mental illness to combat the stigma and discrimination often faced by persons with mental illness. More than 60 affiliates meet across the Commonwealth in support of these programs. NAMI PA offers the Family to Family Education course for members who have adult children and an educational program specific to the needs of families of children and adolescents. The NAMI-CAN